New records have renewed debate about federal actions during the January 6, 2021 Capitol unrest. Judicial Watch released the documents after years of legal pressure on federal agencies.
On January 6, 2025, Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton shared details in a public video. He said the records show CIA involvement tied to the Capitol response that day. The disclosure came four years after the Capitol breach and the contested 2020 election.
Records Obtained Through Federal Court Action
Judicial Watch requested records from the Department of Justice in mid-2023. The group sought communications about reported gunfire and explosive response activity. Federal agencies did not respond within the required timeframe.
Judicial Watch then filed a federal lawsuit to force document disclosure. The lawsuit resulted in the release of internal ATF text messages.
Alleged CIA Role Near Capitol and Party Headquarters
Fitton said the texts reference CIA personnel operating near the Capitol complex. He stated that CIA bomb technicians responded to reported pipe bombs near the RNC and DNC. The documents also mention CIA canine teams stationed near the Capitol’s southwest perimeter.
Fitton questioned why intelligence assets appeared at a domestic disturbance. He noted that the CIA rarely conducts operations inside the United States.
Questions About Oversight and Public Disclosure
Fitton criticized the lack of public disclosure by congressional investigators. He said the House January 6 Committee did not mention CIA involvement.
Fitton asked why watchdog groups needed lawsuits to obtain basic records.
He questioned whether federal agencies withheld information from the public.The documents do not clarify whether the CIA acted proactively or reactively.
Reference to Ashli Babbitt Case
Fitton also addressed the shooting death of Ashli Babbitt during the unrest. He said Judicial Watch represents her family in a wrongful death lawsuit. That lawsuit seeks damages from the federal government. The case remains active in federal court.
CIA Requests Additional Time for Records
Later that day, Fitton posted an update on social media. He said the CIA requested up to four more years to locate additional records. The request raised concerns among transparency advocates. Critics argue that delays undermine public trust.
Ongoing Scrutiny of January 6 Events
The disclosure has intensified scrutiny of federal agency involvement. Public debate continues over what officials disclosed or withheld. Calls for transparency remain central to discussions about January 6. Further legal action may follow as watchdog groups pursue unanswered questions.
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